Alligators EVERYWHERE in Everglades National Park!

Everglades National Park and

Big Cypress National Preserve

March 9 and 10

We (I should say...the boys) have been waiting to see some alligators.  They were not disappointed by the 67 alligators we saw on our 15 mile bike ride in the Everglades.  Some were literally right next to the road and others were in the marshy area or on the river banks.  It was like a giant "I Spy" game of who could see the next alligator to add to our count.  This was such an interesting ecosystem to explore, both swampy and grassland marshes.  The two parks together are over 100 million acres...AMAZING!!  They encompass a great deal of Southern Florida.  We are constantly amazed by how God has protected and provided for our every need on this trip.  We had a great example when we arrived at the Everglades to bike.  An important bolt for Curt's bike was missing...somehow it had fallen off while we were driving and it looked like he would not be able to bike with us.  But as we were looking on the ground we found two extra washers, then unscrewed the reflector to find an extra bolt and we were on our way.  Praise God!

Halfway through the Shark Valley trail, there is a really tall observation tower.  It looked like something out of a Star Wars movie.  It has beautiful 360 degree views of the area.  You might notice that Benjamin has binoculars around his neck...it is quite a trick to ride a bike while looking through binoculars all while staying on the path as not to be eaten by a waiting alligator!

We got up early to arrive at the park at 8 in order to avoid the heat and keep Abby safe in the trailer.  We had the whole park to ourselves...which was really special.

 We also saw lots of turtles and very interesting birds.

 These two pictures were taken at Big Cypress.  It has many cypress trees and a very swampy feel.

 The cutest baby alligator we saw.  We discovered that alligators grow just 6 inches per year...so this was about 2 years old.

We arrived at Sebastian Inlet State Park last night in time for a beautiful sunset.  It is south of Cocoa Beach.  Pappa Bob (Curt's Dad) is flying in today to visit for the week.  He is staying with Curt's Aunt Betsy and Uncle Boyd in Satellite Beach.  We cannot wait to see them all!!